Comparison of Single Diode Vs. Dual Diode Detectors for Microwave Power Detection

In this article we review basic diode detection as it pertains to microwave power measurements. The detected voltage as a function of input voltage is derived for the single diode detector, and several of the limitations and drawbacks are explored. The concept of a balanced detector is then explored and its advantages examined. A family of curves is given showing the worst case errors due to harmonics for both the single diode and the balanced detector.